Regardless of any pressures from the bean counters those of us out in the field working with the tools need to be responsible for our own actions.
While I agree 100% with Bob on this, I think in this case there are some other factors which , IMHO, would make the briefcase persons liable:
(Quoted from the report linked in the OP, bold emphasis added by me.)
The building where the incident occurred was built to older construction standards, and not for the purpose for which it was presently used. A structural modification violated the National Electrical Code (Class II/Div. 1) by exposing the fuse-panel room to combustible dust. In addition, a rubber seal on the fuse box intended to prevent dust from penetrating the box was not in place. Most of the electrical equipment in the factory was old and not up to code, making replacement parts difficult to obtain. The general manager, located in another state, was aware of the antiquated equipment at the mill, but was unaware of applicable safety regulations.
and:
The employees had worked together at the mill for 9 years. They did not maintain a safety program, or perform safety training or routine inspections to identify hazards related to the building, machinery, or operations. None were trained in applicable safety regulations that apply to wood-flour manufacturing.
Both quotes above seem to indicate a serious breakdown in the management of the facility. It is most unfortunate it took a fatality to expose the situation.
